The Willard InterContinental Hotel and the 'lobbyist' etymology

The Willard InterContinental at 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW is a long-standing luxury hotel near the White House that has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and inaugural events. The hotel's lobby is frequently cited as an origin point for the term 'lobbyist' because people historically sought access to politicians there; this etymology is debated among historians. The Willard's historic role in Washington social and political life has made it a well-documented architectural and cultural landmark.